Zhuangzi’s Tale: The Sacred Tortoise
Once upon a time, Zhuangzi fishing in the Pu River with his bamboo pole when the prince of Chu sent two high-ranking officials with an official decree: “You are hereby appointed prime minister.”

Zhuangzi, without turning his gaze from the river, simply picked up his bamboo pole and replied, “I understand that there is a sacred tortoise, venerated by the prince, wrapped in silks, and placed in a precious reliquary on an altar in the Temple. What do you think: is it better for the tortoise to be honored and preserved in such a way, or would it be happier dragging its tail through the silt?”

The officials, understanding the metaphor, answered, “For the tortoise, it would be better to live and drag its tail through the mire.”

“Then go home!” said Zhuangzi. “Leave me here to drag my tail through the mire!”

The Tortoise’s Lesson Applied to Guitarists
The story of Zhuangzi and the tortoise offers a profound lesson for guitarists: success, when measured by external validation, can be a double-edged sword. Many musicians fall into the trap of pursuing technical perfection or public adulation, forgetting that the essence of music lies in expression, not in applause.

Like the tortoise, a guitarist might find themselves enticed by the prospect of being revered, of having their work enshrined in the annals of guitar history. But this veneration often comes at a cost. The pressure to maintain a certain image, to replicate past successes, or to constantly innovate under the scrutiny of others can stifle creativity and lead to a kind of spiritual death—where the guitarist is no longer playing for the love of the music, but for the fear of losing relevance.

The tortoise’s choice to live in the mud, free and unburdened, symbolizes a return to one’s roots—a reminder that true artistry comes from a place of authenticity. For guitarists, this means embracing the imperfect, the raw, the moments of spontaneity that make music feel alive. It’s about finding joy in the process rather than obsessing over the product. It’s better to create something honest and flawed than to produce something polished but soulless.

Moreover, the tortoise’s wisdom invites guitarists to consider the long-term consequences of their pursuits. Chasing fame might bring temporary glory, but it can also lead to burnout, disillusionment, and a loss of passion. By choosing to “drag your tail through the mire,” a guitarist opts for a life of creative freedom, where exploration and personal satisfaction take precedence over public opinion.

Conclusion: The Path Less Traveled
This choice between living authentically and chasing fame might seem obvious, but it’s far from easy. The allure of notoriety is powerful, and the path of humility and authenticity is often the more difficult road to take. Yet, the guitarist who seeks fame at the cost of their soul ends up like the sacred tortoise—offered, canonized, but ultimately lifeless.